Official manufacturer image
Higher published maximum output
Petzl SWIFT RL
Check price on Amazon.caSponsored link · no live price shown
Gearjury may earn a commission from qualifying retailer links.
Head to head
Petzl Headlamp vs Black Diamond: Which Brand Fits Your Needs?
There is no single brand winner. Petzl and Black Diamond each offer varied models, so compare an exact pair by beam, battery and use case.
Official manufacturer image
Official manufacturer image
Explicit ingress protection and colour modes
Black Diamond Storm 500-R
Check price on Amazon.caSponsored link · no live price shown
The verdict
These are examples, not a like-for-like brand ranking. SWIFT RL publishes a higher maximum output and automatic light adjustment; Storm 500-R publishes an IP67 rating and three colour modes. Choose by use and exact model.
Higher published maximum output: Petzl SWIFT RL
Petzl publishes a 1200-lumen maximum for SWIFT RL, compared with 500 lumens for Storm 500-R.
Explicit ingress protection and colour modes: Black Diamond Storm 500-R
Black Diamond lists IP67 and red, green and blue night-vision modes for Storm 500-R.
Reactive brightness adjustment: Petzl SWIFT RL
Petzl describes a sensor-driven Reactive Lighting mode on SWIFT RL.
Compare them side by side
| Official manufacturer imagePetzl SWIFT RL | Official manufacturer imageBlack Diamond Storm 500-R | |
|---|---|---|
| Maximum output | 500 lumens | 1200 lumens |
| Weight | 120 g | 92 g |
| Beam | Proximity and distance | Mixed |
| Power | Rechargeable 2400 mAh Li-ion | Rechargeable battery, USB-C |
| Colour modes | White, red, green and blue | White and red |
| Ingress protection | IP67 | — |
| Check price on Amazon.ca | Check price on Amazon.ca |
Common questions
Questions before you buy
Is Petzl or Black Diamond better for headlamps?
Neither brand is best for every use. Petzl SWIFT RL lists a 1200-lumen maximum and Reactive Lighting, while Black Diamond Storm 500-R lists 500 lumens, IP67 and three auxiliary colour modes.
Which is brighter, Petzl SWIFT RL or Black Diamond Storm 500-R?
Petzl publishes 1200 lumens for SWIFT RL; Black Diamond publishes 500 lumens for Storm 500-R. Maximum output alone does not establish runtime or useful beam for your task.
Which model has green light?
Black Diamond Storm 500-R lists red, green and blue night-vision modes. Petzl SWIFT RL product information lists red lighting.
What is the difference between a headlight and a headlamp?
In outdoor gear, headlamp is the usual term for a wearable light. Headlight often refers to a vehicle lamp, though people sometimes use the words interchangeably in searches.
How should I compare Petzl and Black Diamond models?
Choose models for the same task, then compare beam, output modes, runtime, battery, weight and water protection. Brand-wide labels hide meaningful differences between individual lights.
Sources and how we chose
- Petzl SWIFT RL · 2026-10-21
- Black Diamond Storm 500-R · 2026-10-21
- Black Diamond Spot 400 · 2026-10-21
Keep exploring
Related guides
Black Diamond Headlamps: Spot, Storm and Astro Compared
Compare published output and power options across the Spot, Storm and Astro families before choosing.
Petzl Headlamps: Compare TIKKA, ACTIK and Rechargeable Models
Petzl offers compact hiking lamps, hybrid battery designs and rechargeable performance lights. Match the model to your activity and power needs.
Headlamps: Find the Right LED Headlamp for Your Needs
A good headlamp keeps both hands free. Compare beam style, battery format and fit, then explore rechargeable, running, camping and brand-specific choices.
Milwaukee Headlamps for Hard Hats and Worksites
The REDLITHIUM USB Hard Hat Headlamp suits general hard-hat use; choose the BOLT model for compatible helmets. Compare the mounting and published output.